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Friday, December 27, 2013

Christmas Cheer

Oh, Christmas. Your time has come and gone. In the blink of an eye, all the lights have faded and the sounds have died down. The hustle and bustle that once filled our December has come to a halt as we prepare for a new year.

Christmas Eve was spent at my Grandpa's house. My cousin, Kevin, roasted a pig (yes, a whole pig). It was a first for me. Before I was born, my family would do this every Christmas. Not quite sure why they stopped. I'm just glad that my Grandpa insisted we do it this year. Even though it was a bit awkward eating something that still had a face.

On Christmas morning, Garrett and I woke up super early. And by super, I mean 7:30. That's considered early in our household. After a cup of coffee and waiting for my mama to wake up, we exchanged gifts. I didn't ask for much, but I was blessed with a few things I had been wanting. Like a pair of stud earrings and some new country / worship CD's. I made brunch for the three of us and we watched a few Christmas movies as we ate.

Later that afternoon, we met up with my brother and his family at a Chinese buffet across town. Just think 'A Christmas Story', but unfortunately there were no Chinese men serenading us with 'fa ra ra ra ra'. It wasn't the best food in the world, but we tried to make the most of it. We spent a little time at my brother's house afterwards, opening gifts and reminiscing about Christmases past. It was nice, but it wasn't like it used to be.

The holidays are hard on all of us since my dad passed away last year. This was our second Christmas without having him with us. It's not the same and I know it never will be. I'm just thankful for the family members that I can still love on and wrap my arms around. I know I'll see my dad again one day, but not having him here continues to hurt.

Mmmm! Chinese food sounds like a fabulous tradition to carry over (even if it wasn't the BEST, it's so hard to find a good Chinese restaurant IMO!) I'm sorry that Christmas brings you a little bit of sadness, but I am sure you have fabulous holiday memories with your dad that you can reflect on :) xo

Tampa Bay, Florida ☀
Hello, there. My name is Jess(ica).
I'm just a dreamer; fueled by cups of
strong coffee, optimism, good jams +
God's grace. I'm glad that you decided
to pop by my little neck of the woods!